July 22, 2025

Bottlenose Dolphin Rescued in Bluffton, South Carolina

News Summary

A female bottlenose dolphin named ‘Lucky’ was successfully rescued after becoming stranded in a shallow lagoon in Bluffton. The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network coordinated the rescue with local volunteers and fire department support, highlighting the importance of community involvement in marine conservation efforts.

Bluffton, South Carolina

A female bottlenose dolphin, known as “Lucky,” was successfully rescued last Saturday after becoming stranded in a shallow lagoon in the Hampton Lake community of Bluffton, South Carolina. The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network (LMMN) was alerted to the situation following reports and video footage provided by a concerned resident, which confirmed that the dolphin was stuck far from open water.

Lucky became trapped during a period marked by excessive rainfall and unusually high tides, which led to her entrapment in water measuring only 2-3 feet deep. The dolphin, approximately 7 feet long and weighing between 400-500 pounds, is a year-round resident of the May River and is regularly monitored by researchers from the University of South Carolina Beaufort.

After receiving the call just after noon, the LMMN dispatched a rescue team from Charleston, which included Executive Director Lauren Rust, responders Tracy Kowalczyk and John Kane, and volunteer Amber Kuehn. They were supported by the Bluffton Township Fire District, ensuring a safe and efficient rescue operation.

Challenges Encountered During the Rescue

Upon arrival at the lagoon, the rescue team assessed Lucky’s condition and noted the challenges posed by the difficult terrain. The rescue required carefully guiding the dolphin onto a marine rescue tarp. Initially, the team faced significant challenges as Lucky swam away from the tarp, complicating the effort to safely transport her out of danger.

After persistent efforts, Lucky was finally guided onto the tarp, allowing responders to carefully lift her out of the lagoon. The team then carried the dolphin approximately 75 feet up a steep embankment to a waiting trailer. Following a brief health evaluation, it was determined that Lucky was alert and in good condition for her transport back to the May River.

Return to Freedom

After being transported to a secluded dock in May River Plantation, Lucky was released back into the river, where she swam away vigorously and headed back to her pod. This successful operation highlighted the effective teamwork of local residents, LMMN staff, volunteers, and the Bluffton Fire Department.

Background of the Incident

This unusual incident was a unique situation that had never before been witnessed by local officials. Experts believe that Lucky likely entered the lagoon through a culvert from the May River during the preceding heavy rains, which created the conditions for her entrapment.

The Bluffton Fire Department emphasized the critical importance of notifying authorities in similar circumstances, advising the public against attempting to assist marine animals directly, as doing so could pose risks for both the animals and individuals involved.

Lucky has previously had three calves; however, she was alone during the time of her rescue, which alleviated concerns regarding her offspring potentially following her into danger.

The collaborative rescue operation serves as a reminder of the responsibility community members share in protecting marine life while highlighting the expertise of organizations like the LMMN in responding to emergencies involving marine mammals.